Here we have one of the best bargains you’ll find in the performance roadster category – the BMW Z3 M. The “M” stands for Motorsports, distinguishing this variant from the plain-Jane Z3. The story began in 1995, when BMW introduced the Z3 as a follow-on to its quirky Z1. Aimed at the Miata’s niche, the first Z3s were equipped with a four-cylinder engine, and manufactured in South Carolina – the first BMW made entirely outside of Germany. A debut in the James Bond movie Goldeneye propelled the Z3 to the forefront of the automotive press. The advent of the six-cylinder S52 engine in 1996, the highly tuned M variant in 1998, then the more powerful S54 in 2001 put the Z3 on the map. Find this low-mileage 1999 BMW M on craigslist for $19,500; the car is located in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Thanks to Curvette for passing along the tip!
The Motorsports version of the Z3 utilizes the M3 engine; this one is the S52, displacing 3.2 liters, making 240 hp with a 7000 rpm redline in factory tune. But this car sports a Dinan Stage 2 engine module, which removes the top speed limiter installed by BMW and improves torque. The seller suggests that output now registers 275 hp. The M variant was also built with a ZF five-speed (versus the Z3’s four-speed), a limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, and stiffer suspension – some say too stiff. This car has traveled just 56,700 miles.
The cabin is cozy, but once you’re in here, the seats are supportive and the ergonomics are great. All the modern conveniences are available – air conditioning, heated seats, power door locks. The seller notes that the plastic rear window should be replaced. One note born of experience: if you’re planning a long road trip, better evaluate your packing habits versus the space allotted for luggage. There’s no space behind the seats, and the trunk is tiny.
Z3 production ran to 2002, then the Z4 was launched. More refined but heavier, the Z4 was designed with sharp body lines accentuating its panels. Each model has its fans, but these days you’ll pay more for a Z4 on average. Today’s featured Z3 M is priced at a slight discount to comparable cars, likely because of the Dinan modification. Most low-mileage, unmodified roadsters with clean CarFax reports will sell somewhere between $25k and $30k. So if you’re in the market for a performance-oriented BMW sports car, this one is a worthy prospect.
My brother’s (ex) wife had a Z3 with the straight 6 and manual trans. She did not know how to drive it. But my brother sure did! One ride and I knew I wanted one. The acceleration and the sweet sound sold me.
Then she started having issues with it. In and out of the shop numerous times. That cooled my lust.
Nice write up Michelle.
Very reasonable price for what looks like a nicely kept Z3M.
It might be a good car,but I can’t take the front end on these.
It has that buck teeth/Grand Am look.
I guess the good thing is that you can’t see that from the driver’s seat.
Optimistic pricetag for a Z3 “M” at any mileage. And 57k is not a “wow” number, at that. But very pretty. I love my non-M.
These have been increasing in price lately. Be sure to check the trunk floor for cracks and failed spot welds, a known weak point of all Z3s that’s not cheap to repair
Also, the only 4-speed transmission in the Z3 was the optional automatic. A 5-speed manual was standard on all models, not just the M.
I think that the suggestion indicating that this car is underpriced flies against reality. Based on my following the Z3M cars for several years, without documentation regarding several key mechanical concerns, this is at the top of the market for this odometer reading. Yes, they can and do sell for even $35K, if miles are ultra-low, and the fixe$ have been applied. That is Z3M/Z4M coupe territory.
A potential buyer should have a BMW specialist look it over carefully before shelling out the cash. They are awesome cars to drive (so I have heard), hence my interest. One of these days….